Pet Safety During the Holidays and Celebrations

The holidays are a time to meet with loved ones and celebrate life. Although this time can be fun for us, our pets might have a less joyful experience. Many pets suffer from anxiety and confusion that impact their enjoyment of the holiday season. Fortunately, you can take several steps to reduce your pet’s stress and help it have a safe holiday season. Old Town Veterinary Hospital in Murrieta, CA, is here to tell you about pet safety during the holidays and how to help calm pet anxiety.

Causes of Stress in Pets During the Holidays

One of the primary stressors for pets during the holidays is the abrupt change in sounds and people. Pets accustomed to a quiet home life with few people around can experience severe anxiety when confronted with new sounds and people. Loud noises and new faces often make pets feel uncomfortable and unsafe. Children who do not know how to interact with pets can also cause your pet significant stress and anxiety. Another stressor for pets is separation from their owner. Your pet may experience separation anxiety while you are out this holiday season.

How to Keep Your Pet Safe

In addition to new people and sounds, your pet also needs to worry about dangerous food or items frequently seen during holiday celebrations. Many holiday plants and foods can cause your pet significant health problems if it eats them. Plants like poinsettias and lilies are toxic to cats, and chocolates and rich gravies can cause severe digestive issues in dogs. To protect your pet’s health and happiness, you should consider doing the following:

•             Keep Toxic Materials Away: Keep any toxic food or plant away from your pet to prevent poisoning.

•             Provide Some Rules for Your Guests: Provide some rules for your guests so your pet feels comfortable during holiday gatherings.

•             Create a Safe Space: Have a designated space where your pet can rest and relax to reduce stress and anxiety during gatherings.

•             Seek Veterinary Treatment: Preventative care like anxiety medication can help your pet remain comfortable during the holidays if anxiety symptoms do not resolve.

Help Your Pet Enjoy the Holidays With Preventative Care at Old Town Veterinary Hospital

Responsible pet ownership includes protecting your pet’s safety and happiness during the holidays, so contact Old Town Veterinary Hospital in Murrieta, CA, to get the preventative care necessary to help your pet enjoy this holiday season. Call us at (951) 698-3200 to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian today.